Manager of heritage railway steps down
THE MANAGER of a heritage railway in the Yorkshire Dales is stepping down after seven “challenging” years.
Wensleydale Railway has announced the retirement of Nigel Park, who became general manager of in 2011.
Interim chairman Carl Les said the board and directors owed Mr Park “a debt of gratitude” for his efforts in “meeting, and sorting” the numerous challenges that crop up on a heritage railway.
He added: “And we must remember that with many small companies like this, when you ‘buy one, you get one free’ - his wife Mo has been a stalwart supporter of all his efforts, and a volunteer in her own right.
“I’m pleased to say we are not losing their skills and experience however. They will both continue as volunteers and their contributions will be greatly welcome as indeed we appreciate the support of all our railway family of volunteers and staff.”
Mr Park said: “There is no doubt that the last seven years have been challenging, but it has been made both enjoyable and satisfying by that excellent group who make up the Wensleydale Railway`s staff, supporters and volunteers.
“We have come a long way together and I am looking forward to continuing as a volunteer to contribute to the Railway’s development”
Richard Brown, currently operations manager, will take over as general manager from April.
The railway has also appointed two further staff this month – Angela Frame, as catering manager, and Rebekah Jerram as events coordinator.